*2017*

Wow, the top 5 New Year’s Resolutions haven’t strayed too far over the years. From quitting smoking to losing weight to exercising more and saving money, we’ve tried to change these attributes in ourselves, but many times to no avail. Sometimes lasting a month or even just a week, these resolutions are almost always meant to be broken. Recently the list has added technological resolutions such as spending less time on social media and not answering emails and texts the second they happen, if possible.

I decided to throw together a few more to add to the challenge. But whatever you choose to resolve, even if it’s just being a better you, I wish you all a wonderfully healthy and particularly positive 2017.

Add one healthy food to your diet – I enjoy tuna salad, but since bread is supposedly “the devil” I decided to have my serving over a bed of kale, the veggie of health. I add chopped apples, walnuts and dried cranberries and so far so good, I can’t even TASTE the kale ; )

Find five minutes for “me” time – I’m not sure if today’s daily grind is more difficult than years ago, but we definitely have more information and stimulus coming at us every minute of the day. Research shows that simply taking 5 minutes to calm your mind and body benefits both our mind and our body as well as our attitude and productivity. So drop and gimme 5!

Give a little bit – A small donation to a cause close to your heart is not only helpful, but self-gratifying. I have a little vice…I enjoy buying a mocha latte from Sono Baking a few times a week. I decided to skip purchasing one a week and set aside the $5 to build my donation kitty. Whether you can afford to donate money or just donate items or even time to another philanthropic medium, you’re already feeling better about yourself while helping another…and getting a little tax deduction to boot.

Say CHEESE – “Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.” ~Thich Nhat Hanh. The next you’re having a rainy day and Monday, give smiling a try. Scientists agree that the simple act can transform you both psychologically and physiologically. It releases neuropeptides and neurotransmitters such as serotonin, endorphins, and dopamine that relieve stress and relaxes your body, but it can also lower your heart rate and blood pressure. Endorphins also act as a natural pain reliever…which might come in handy tomorrow morning!

Fashion Freshening – Whether revamping your style or clearing your closet of unneeded items, the new year is the perfect time to make this goal a reality. It’s empowering to realize that a new you is underway in the new year.

Please enjoy my resolution of giving you a New Year’s gift…20% off your next service. Whether a consult, a shopping excursion or a daughter shopping date, cheers to the new year!